Roads: McGuinness 'keeping options open' after Honda split

John McGuinness has said he is ‘keeping his options open’ with regards to a ride for the 2018 Isle of Man TT after confirming he has split with Honda Racing.

The 23-time TT winner announced at a Joey Dunlop Foundation event at the weekend that he has agreed to part company with the Japanese giant after a challenging season which saw him badly break his right leg in a crash at the North West 200 when his Fireblade’s electronics system malfunctioned.

“At the minute I’m a 45-year-old ex-bricky with a manky leg, so I’m keeping my options open,” the Morecambe Missile told presenter Jo Pack.

“I’ve shaken hands with Honda as of this week, the bosses came to my house to see me, and we have made an amicable agreement that it’s time for me to move on.”

While confirming his Honda departure, McGuinness was adamant he has nothing signed for 2018. 

“I’ve spoken to TAS BMW, Kawasaki, Norton, and I’m considering running something myself and I’ve chatted with Mugen too about getting back on the electric bike and that seems to be looking good. Nothing is signed yet, though.”

Norton have also rebutted recent claims he’s signed for the Castle Donington-based squad, stating they are yet to finalise their 2018 TT line-up.

Even if McGuinness does sign a deal, he’s remaining realistic about his chances of racing on the mountain course come June, accepting it is all down to how much progress is made with the leg between now and then.  

“Ultimately, I’ve not got a crystal ball,” he explained. “I don’t know how I’m going to be come May so I’ll make a decision, get my entries in and then it’ll be a last minute thing to see if I’ll actually be there.”  

Have a browse for your next bike on MCN Bikes For Sale website or use the MCN’s Bikes For Sale App.